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MUSIC

sound check

Though talented and lovely Carrie Rodriguez is more than capable of delivering
breathtaking solo albums (as proven on "Love and Circumstance," "She
Ain't Me," etc.), she continues to churn out delectable duets at such a
high standard and frequency that comparisons to Tammy Wynette and Melba Montgomery
can't be avoided. Rodriguez's longtime work with singing partner Chip Taylor
speaks volumes about her ability to share a song, and it appears that she has
also found harmony with Ben Kyle on "We Still Love Our Country." Love
is the album's predominant theme, from the youthful optimism of "Your Lonely
Heart" and palpitations of "Big Kiss," to the country heartbreak
of "You're Still On My Mind" and "My Baby's Gone," followed
by an achingly good cover of "Love Hurts." CV

Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers have now released six consecutive albums
that have debuted in the top 10 on Billboard's Internet Sales chart, the first
independent band to accomplish that feat. More impressive, though, is the band's
ability to consistently churn out guitar-driven, roots rock (with a Southwestern
flavor) that never caters to trends (even if it is radio friendly) and is as
musically balanced (singing, songwriting, instrumentation, arrangements, melodies,
hooks) as any Americana rock act on the road these days. The band's latest album,
"Unida Cantina," is further proof of the band's musical consistency
and chemistry, if not perhaps their best work to date, including chart-topping
records like 1999's "Honky Tonk Union" and 2004's "!Americano!"
Highlights include "Love Is the Road," "Marie" and "Play
On." CV